Tap into Apprenticeship Opportunities: Leverage Federal Funding to Grow Your Workforce!
As the workforce development landscape continues to evolve, the need for innovative solutions to meet the demands of a rapidly changing job market has never been more critical. Apprenticeships, a time-tested model, have resurfaced as a key strategy for building a robust and competitive U.S. workforce.
With the introduction of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), which provides substantial federal funding for apprenticeship programs, now is the perfect time for employers to take advantage of these opportunities and start building their talent pipelines. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of apprenticeships and strategies, and resources to implement them effectively.
Why Apprenticeships Matter Now More Than Ever
Apprenticeship programs, which allow individuals to earn while they learn, are a proven method for upskilling and reskilling workers. With President Biden’s administration pushing for significant investments in workforce training through the American Jobs Plan, and now with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, there is unprecedented support for expanding apprenticeship opportunities across construction and infrastructure industries.
New Funding Opportunities: Seize the Moment
The BIL has allocated significant resources to help companies create and expand apprenticeship programs. This legislation provides federal funding opportunities, making it easier for employers to invest in their workforce without bearing the full financial burden. Whether your company is in construction, energy, infrastructure, or any other industry, there has never been a better time to explore how apprenticeships can benefit your organization.
Let’s Review: What Is an Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships are structured training programs that combine on-the-job experience with classroom instruction, allowing participants to gain practical skills while earning a paycheck. These programs are highly customizable, enabling businesses to tailor them to meet specific industry needs. By partnering with state and local workforce systems, businesses can create win-win situations where both employers and jobseekers thrive.
6 Benefits of Apprenticeships for Your Company
- Recruit and develop a highly skilled workforce
- Improve productivity and enhance your bottom line
- Access tax credits and employee tuition benefits
- Achieve a strong ROI — up to $1.50 for every dollar spent
- Reduce turnover costs and increase employee retention
- Create industry-driven, flexible training solutions
Debunking Common Apprenticeship Myths
- Apprenticeships are only for skilled trades: Apprenticeships now span over 1,200 occupations in 175 industries, including healthcare, IT, and finance.
- Only men participate in apprenticeships: Diversity is growing, with more women, minorities, and veterans joining apprenticeship programs.
- There’s limited funding for apprenticeships: The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and other federal grants provide substantial support.
- Apprenticeships are outdated: Demand is high, and programs are expanding rapidly across the nation.
- Apprenticeships are for those who struggle academically: Apprenticeships offer an alternative path to skilled careers, complementing traditional education.
How to Get Started
Starting an apprenticeship program is a straightforward process when you have the right partners. The first step is to collaborate with organizations, workforce intermediaries (like EDSI), educational institutions, and community organizations. These partnerships help design, develop, and implement apprenticeship programs tailored to your company’s needs.
“Developing and implementing a recognized apprenticeship program is easier than most organizations think. In most cases, we can help a company get up and running with their apprenticeship program in less than six months,” – Ken Mall, Managing Partner, Workforce Consulting at EDSI.
Funding and Operation: Leveraging Federal Support
The U.S. Department of Labor provides various funding opportunities, including those under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Signed in November 2021, the law allocates significant resources to support apprenticeships and workforce development across various sectors. Specifically, the law dedicates $74 billion for workforce development programs, including expanding registered apprenticeship programs. This funding aims to increase the number of apprenticeship slots by 1-2 million and focuses on creating pathways for underrepresented groups such as women and people of color. In addition, the Department of Commerce, Department of Energy, and the Department of Transportation have a combined $165 billion to support workforce development and apprenticeship programs.
The BIL also provides opportunities for cost reimbursement, allowing employers to receive up to 50% of the wages paid to apprentices through various grant programs. Furthermore, the law includes a robust investment in pre-apprenticeship and direct-entry programs to help individuals, including those without college degrees, gain critical job skills, especially in the construction and clean energy sectors(Apprenticeship.gov)(ApprentiScope).
By accessing these resources, companies can significantly offset the costs of training and supporting apprentices. At EDSI, we offer consulting services to help companies navigate these opportunities, ensuring a smooth and successful program launch.
Registering Your Program
Once your apprenticeship program is developed and funded, the last step is to register with the U.S. Department of Labor. Registered programs meet national standards, offering benefits such as tax credits, access to federal resources, and a recognized credential for apprentices.
Take Action Today
With the new funding opportunities provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, there has never been a better time to start or expand an apprenticeship program at your company. At EDSI, we are experts in helping businesses navigate the complexities of apprenticeship programs. We have been advocates of apprenticeship programming for many years and are proud to be recognized as an Apprenticeship Ambassador through The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship.
For more on apprenticeship programs, check out this previously published blog here to learn more or contact us today to hear how we can support your efforts to build a skilled workforce and drive your company’s success.
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